Frankfurt: Abarth 695 Competizione

Abarth unveiled a glut of new models at the Frankfurt motor show – including a race-inspired Abarth 695 Competizione.

The 180bhp, 140mph machine – which Abarth describes as a ‘street legal racing car’ is powered by a 1.4-litre turbo engine mated to a five-speed paddle-shift gearbox.

The interior is a stripped-out two-seater, with a roll bar in the rear. An official weight has not been given, but the 695 Competizione will cover 0-62mph in under 7secs.

The car is reminiscent of the 695 Tributo Ferrari special edition that was produced in 2009. Like that car, the 695 Competizione has uprated suspension and Brembo braking systems to cope with the extra power. A variable back-pressure dual mode exhaust enhances the performance and sound of the engine above 3000rpm. The car is fitted with 17-inch rims.

The interior boasts ‘Abarth Corsa by Sabelt’ seats in black leather with Alcantara red inserts and a carbonfibre shell and seat base. The cockpit also has a carbon dashboard and running board.

At Frankfurt Abarth also displayed a limited-edition drop-top version of the 500 called the Cabrio Italia and a Punto SuperSport featuring upgraded performance parts.